System and method for rf testing

ABSTRACT

A system for testing radio frequency (RF) characteristics of a wireless device includes a test fixture. The test fixture includes a base plate that receives a wireless device, and a back plate that receives an RF antenna and positions the RF antenna relative to the wireless device. Additionally, the system includes test equipment that in operation performs RF testing on the wireless device using the RF antenna to determine RF characteristics of the wireless device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/070,248 filed on Nov. 1, 2013 entitled METHOD FOR SECURING A WIRELESSDEVICE FOR RF TESTING, which is a Divisional of U.S. application Ser.No. 12/613,324 now patented as U.S. Pat. No. 8,810,460 filed on Nov. 5,2009 entitled MULTIDIMENSIONAL RF TEST FIXTURE AND METHOD FOR SECURING AWIRELESS DEVICE FOR RF TESTING, which were previously filed and theteachings and disclosures of which are hereby incorporated in theirentireties by reference thereto.

BACKGROUND

The use of and development of communications has grown nearlyexponentially in recent years. The growth is fueled by larger networkswith more reliable protocols and better communications hardwareavailable to both service providers and consumers. In particular, newwireless devices, such as wireless handsets, personal digital assistants(PDAs), netbooks, laptops, wireless cards, and other similar elementsare being released nearly constantly.

Wireless devices are required to go through various forms of testing toensure compliance with communications standards, and technicalrequirements set by standard setting organizations (SSOs), governments,industry groups, a company, service providers, or other applicableparties. For example, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)regulates the radio frequency (RF) energy that may be emitted by a cellphone. Performing tests for a wireless device or wireless device modelmay be time consuming and difficult because of different antenna patternradiation, antenna positioning within each wireless device, and thenecessity of repeating testing for multiple wireless devices.

SUMMARY

One embodiment provides a system and method for testing radio frequency(RF) characteristics of a wireless device. The wireless device may bereceived on a base plate of a test fixture, and the wireless device mayinclude at least one of a computing device or telecommunications device.Further, an RF antenna may be received in a back plate of the testfixture. Additionally, the back plate may be positioned in relation to acommunications component of the wireless device in a positioncorresponding to acceptable RF characteristics of the wireless device.Further, RF testing may be performed on the wireless device.

Another embodiment provides a system for testing RF characteristics of awireless device. The system may include a test fixture that includes abase plate that receives a wireless device. The test fixture may alsoinclude a back plate that receives an RF antenna and positions the RFantenna relative to the wireless device. Additionally, the system mayinclude test equipment that performs RF testing on the wireless deviceusing the RF antenna to determine RF characteristics of the wirelessdevice.

Yet another embodiment provides a system and method for testing wirelesscharacteristics of a wireless device. The wireless device may bereceived on a base plate of a test fixture. Further, an RF antenna maybe positioned above the wireless device and in relation to acommunications component of the wireless device in a positioncorresponding to acceptable RF characteristics of the wireless device.Further, positions of the wireless device and the RF antenna may beindicated to perform subsequent testing of similar wireless devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described indetail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which areincorporated by reference herein and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture from behind inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture from behind inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a pictorial representation of a radial guide in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture as viewed frombelow in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a process for performing RF testing utilizingthe test fixture in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments provide a test fixture and method forperforming RF testing of wireless devices. The wireless device is anydevice or apparatus configured for wireless communications. The wirelessdevices may include cell phones, PDAs, BlackBerry® devices,communications-enabled MP3 players, EVDO cards, wireless cards,netbooks, laptops, tablets, e-book readers, global positioning systems(GPS), or other computing or telecommunications devices configured forwireless communication.

In one embodiment, a test fixture may be utilized to secure the wirelessdevice while testing and measuring the RF characteristics andperformance of the wireless device for transmitting and receivingwireless communications. The test fixture may position the wirelessdevice and one or more RF antenna couplers in the ideal or optimalrelative positions to achieve acceptable RF characteristics for testing.The acceptable RF characteristics are optimal measurements as manuallyor automatically determined for the wireless device based on testparameters, requirements, wireless device, and testing system. Forexample, the acceptable RF characteristics may be selected by a testengineer based on the best available information. The RF characteristicsthat are most frequently tested may include transmitter, modulation,spectrum, and receiver measurements. Transmitter measurements mayevaluate the RF output power of the wireless device, these may include:maximum output transmit power and minimum output power. Modulationmeasurements may compare the actual modulation vector with the idealreference vector, these may include: error vector magnitude, phaseerror, frequency error, magnitude error, and waveform quality. Spectrummeasurements may measure the amount of energy that falls outside thecarrier frequency, these may include: adjacent channel power andadjacent channel leakage power ratio. Receiver measurements may comparethe output signal sent by the RF test instrument with the signalreceived by the wireless device, these may include: bit error rate,frame erasure rate, and block error ratio.

The wireless devices may utilize any number of wireless communicationsstandards, protocols, or formats along with associated hardware,software, and firmware including wideband code division multiple access(W-CDMA), CDMA, global system for mobile communications (GSM), generalpacket radio service (GPRS), enhanced GPRS (EGPRS), high-speed downlinkpacket access (HSDPA), evolution-data optimized (EVDO), WiFi, Bluetooth,GPS, WiMAX, personal communications service, analog, and wireless localarea networks.

In particular, the test fixture may allow different model types to berepeatably tested. For example, the test fixture may be configured totest a set of fifty cell phones of a particular model. After the testfixture is initially configured, multiple wireless devices of that samemodel, configuration, or size and shape (“similar devices”) may betested utilizing the test fixture. The test fixture may indicate thepositioning of the respective components utilized during testing toreconfigure the test fixture at a later time. The test fixture may allowa user to position an RF antenna coupler relative to the communicationselements of the wireless device for testing the RF characteristics ofthe wireless device. For example, RF testing of a laptop may requirethat the lid be positioned at a certain angle to ensure optimal wirelesstransmission characteristics for measurement by the RF antenna coupler.As a result, multiple tests for wireless devices may be carried outefficiently and consistently and with a high degree of accuracy formultiple wireless devices reducing costs, time, and difficulty.

The test fixture may be utilized by governmental entities, SSOs,companies, research and development groups, industry regulators, andothers that test the RF characteristics of the wireless device. The testfixture may be configured without any special tools or expensivetraining. For example, nylon set screws may be utilized to position andsecure the components of the test fixture. The test fixture provides auniversal test stand, platform, or fixture that may be utilized fornumerous wireless devices, reducing the equipment and lab costs that maybe required to test each wireless device. The test fixture may allowtesting for a wireless device to be repeated by multiple parties (OEM,service provider, government entity). In particular, being able toconsistently reproduce RF testing may be important when importantfindings, such as compliance failures or communications failures aremeasured or tested. The RF testing may include communications to andfrom the wireless device.

FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of atest fixture 100. The test fixture 100 is a stand, platform, or toolconfigured to enable a user to perform RF testing and RF characteranalysis for a wireless device. RF testing may include measuringtransmission strength, antenna sensitivity of the wireless device,signal quality, and other similar measurements.

In one embodiment, the test fixture 100 may include a base plate 102, aleft guide 104, a front guide 106, a right guide 108, set screws 110,vertical gridlines 112, horizontal gridlines 114, v-indicators 116,x-indicators 118, a vertical support 120, a stop 122, vertical guides124, grooves 126, a horizontal guide 128, a slot 130, a back plate 132,an RF antenna coupler 134, x-indicators 136, and y-indicators 138 (the“components”).

Although not specifically described, the test fixture 100 may be mountedor placed in an RF isolation chamber, room, or box. The RF isolation boxprevents radio frequency signals from reaching the wireless device, testfixture 100, and the RF antenna coupler 134 for preventing unwantedinterference and ensuring the accuracy of RF testing. In anotherembodiment, the test fixture 100 may be utilized in a room insulated orshielded for performing RF testing. The wireless device and RF antennacoupler 134 may be connected to a test set, system, device(s),instrument, or other test equipment (“test instrument”) which mayinclude signal generators, recording devices, logical elements, andsignal analyzers. In one example, the test instrument may be a Rohde &Schwarz CMU200, an Agilent 8960, or other similar test instruments. AnRF cable (not shown) with the appropriate or selected insertion loss mayconnect the test instrument to an RF port of the wireless device. Inanother embodiment, an RF cable may be connected between the testinstrument and the RF shielded chamber housing the test fixture 100. Forexample, the RF cable may connect to the RF antenna coupler 134.

Various parameters of the wireless device and/or test instrument may bevaried depending on the applicable wireless standard and the tests beingperformed, including the RF power level for the test instrument fortransmitting, the maximum transmit outer power limits for the testinstrument for transmitting, the RF power level of the test instrumentfor receiving signals, the bit error rate (BER)/frame error rate (FER)limits, and RF channels including low, middle, and high channels foreach band.

The base plate 102 is a support structure or framework for supporting orholding a portion of the wireless device. For example, the base plate102 may support a bottom portion or keyboard of the wireless device. Thebase plate 102 may be a lattice, honeycomb, checkerboard, or otherstructure. The user may also position the wireless device face down onthe base plate 102 based on the configuration of the wireless device andthe testing requirements. For example, a keyboard of the wireless devicemay sit on the base plate 102. In the illustrative embodiments, the testfixture 100 is composed entirely of non-conducting or non-metallicelements in order to provide accurate RF testing results. Metal withinany of the components of the test fixture 100 may adversely reflect orabsorb RF signals generated by the wireless device or RF antenna coupler134, thereby affecting the results of the testing. The base plate 102and test fixture 100 may be of any size to accommodate large laptops,complexly shaped GPS devices, and the smallest cell phones.

The components that compose or are attached to the test fixture 100 maybe molded, manufactured, or created from a single material or multiplematerials. For example, the test fixture 100 may be composed entirely ofplastic, composites, wood, rubber, nylon, or any number of materialsthat maximize or enhance the testing as performed for the wirelessdevice positioned on the test fixture 100. In one embodiment, the testfixture is formed from acetal (such as Delrin manufactured by DuPont, ahomopolymer acetal), a thermoplastic. Acetal and other similarthermoplastics have the ability to absorb electromagnetic energymaximizing the effectiveness of the RF testing. In one embodiment, theset screws 110 are made from nylon. The test fixture 100 and componentsmay be generated utilizing a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine,molded from individual parts, or custom made utilizing hand tools.

In one embodiment, the wireless device is positioned on the base plate102. The left guide 104, front guide 106, and right guide 108 (orhereinafter referred to as “guides”) may be removable or may be slidablyattached to the base plate 102. The guides are supports or stops thatsupport the wireless device. In particular, the guides may secure thewireless device and prevent the wireless device from slipping or movingduring testing.

The guides may physically secure the wireless device to the test fixture100. The guides may include any number of shapes. In one embodiment, theguides are rectangularly shaped. In another embodiment, the guides are aflattened-oval shape with rounded edges and made of a rubber compositefor abutting the wireless device. The guides may also be L-shaped,rounded, or semi-circular to accommodate a corner of the wireless deviceor other distinct shapes.

In another embodiment, the test fixture 100 may include a rear guide,which may similarly be positioned on the base plate 102. The base plate102 is positioned or referenced in a horizontal plane. The x and ydirection of the horizontal plane corresponds to the horizontalgridlines 114 and vertical gridlines 112 as well as the x-indicators 118and the y-indicators 116, respectively. As a result, a wireless devicebeing tested may be positioned in the x and y direction of thehorizontal plane, as may the left guide 104, front guide 106 and rightguide 108.

The set screws 110 may pass through holes or slots defined by the guidesin order to entirely remove the guides from the base plate 102 andcorresponding test fixture 100. In another embodiment, the set screws110 may only be loosened (without disengaging the guides entirely),thereby allowing the guides to be moved or positioned on the base plate.In one embodiment, the guides may be moved along the vertical gridlines112 and horizontal gridlines 114 to abut and support the wireless deviceon two or more sides to prevent movement in two directions. For example,the vertical gridlines 112 and horizontal gridlines 114 may be verticaland horizontal grooves, rails, through holes, markings, or protrusionsused to attach the guides to the base plate utilizing connectors. Forexample, the vertical gridlines 112 and horizontal gridlines 114 may besized to receive the set screws 110 or other connectors for securing theguides in place. Alternatively, the vertical gridlines 112 andhorizontal gridlines 114 may be entirely cosmetic.

In one embodiment, the guides may include fitted extensions underneathconfigured to slidably move within the vertical gridlines 112 andhorizontal gridlines 114. The set screws 110 are a specific example, butrepresent any number of attachment devices or connectors that may beutilized to fix the elements to the test fixture 100. In one embodiment,the set screws 110 are nylon screws that may be screwed into thevertical gridlines 112 and horizontal gridlines 114. The set screws 110may also be utilized in conjunction with the vertical support 120, thevertical guides 124, the horizontal guide 128, and the back plate 132.

In another embodiment, the set screws 110 may be replaced by otherconnectors which may include clips, clamps, bolts, screws, nails,dowels, adhesives, pegs, velcro, or other attachment elements that allowthe different components of the test fixture 100 to be positioned andthen secured or fixed for testing. The y-indicators 116 and thex-indicators 118 are visual indicators or markings indicating theposition of the wireless device and the guides on the base plate 102.The v-indicators 116 and the x-indicators 118 may be included on theedges or across the entire base plate 102. The y-indicators 116 and thex-indicators 118 may represent information written, etched, inscribed,output, or otherwise displayed on the base plate 102 or on one or moreguides. In another embodiment, the y-indicators 116 and the x-indicators118 may include digital read-outs, screens, or electronic information.

In one embodiment, the x-indicators 118 may be numbers and they-indicators 116 may be letters. The x-indicators 118 and they-indicators 116 may provide sub-indicators or levels of granularitywhich may include English or metric units. For example, the x-indicators118 may be numbers representing centimeters across the base plate 102and may further include marks or indicators representing millimetersbetween each centimeter. The x-indicators 118 may be further labeledacross the entirety of the base plate 102. Similarly, the y-indicators116 may include additional levels of granularity. For example, theletters may similarly represent a centimeter or other larger measurementunits and may include indicators, such as lines, markers, or thecharacters A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, A-5, A-6, . . . A-N, or A.1, A.2, A.3, .. . A.N may indicate millimeters between each letter comprising they-indicators 116. As a result, by analyzing or looking at the base plate102 and markers or indicators of the test fixture 100, a user may beable to determine the exact location of the wireless device orcomponents. Different markers or indicator sets or nomenclatures may beutilized for each component or measurement scale of the test fixture100.

Determining the positions of the guides and the wireless device may beparticularly important for reconfiguring the test fixture 100 forsubsequent tests of a wireless device model. The x-indicators 118 andy-indicators 116 allow tests to be performed and repeated much moresimply by indicating exact positioning of the components. For example, aservice provider may utilize a testing configuration designed by the OEMto position the wireless device, size the air gap, and otherwise performtesting of the wireless device utilizing the test fixture. Disputes andmiscommunication are minimized utilizing the universal fit of the testfixture 100 in conjunction with repeatable configurations for similarwireless devices.

In another embodiment, the guides may include digital or analogcounters, indicators, or sensors that display or otherwise indicate theexact position or location of the guides or the wireless device. Forexample, the user may place each of the guides at a specific or defaultlocation on the base plate 102 before moving it to a testing position.The guides may mechanically or electronically measure the movement ofthe guides from one or more default (or zero) positions to the testingposition. The counter may provide information indicating the exactlocation of each of the guides as well as the wireless device on thebase plate 102. Notches or grooves within the vertical gridlines 112 andthe horizontal gridlines 114 may increment or decrement a counter oneach guide as moved. Similarly, the y-indicators 116 and x-indicators118 may increase or decrease position or location information or adisplay that corresponds to each of the guides.

In another embodiment, the base plate 102 may include one or moresensors dispersed within or on a bottom portion of the base plate 102that determines the exact position of each of the components in order toreposition the components at a later time as needed for subsequent testsof a wireless device model or for a wireless device of similar size,shape, and/or configuration. For example, the guides may include amagnet, RFID chip, or other reference marker that is measured or sensedby an electromagnetic sensor array within the base plate to determineand output an exact position. The test instrument or an externallyconnected computing device or logic element may record the positions ofthe components and may be utilized to automatically or manuallyreconfigure the test fixture 100.

As will be described in additional embodiments, the base plate 102 maybe configured such that the RF antenna coupler 134 may be fixedly ortemporarily attached, mounted, or embedded for testing RFcharacteristics of the wireless device. For example, in many cases, cellphones have a transceiver on a bottom-most left-handed portion of thewireless device. As a result, the RF antenna coupler 134 may be mountedor inserted flush or substantially flush within the base plate 102 forperforming testing of the wireless device. For example, the position ofthe RF antenna coupler 134 may correspond to 10-G of the x-indicators118 and y-indicators 116 when placed on the upper-right hand corner ofthe base plate 102. The RF antenna coupler 134 may be connected to oneor more testing devices, systems, equipment, or other elements through awired or wireless connection for measuring the RF characteristics,performance, and measurements of the wireless device.

In one embodiment, the base plate 102 may include one or more removablesections or knock outs that may allow the RF antenna coupler 134 andinterconnected wires or cables to be mounted from above or below inorder to perform testing of the wireless device. For example, the baseplate 102 may include attachable sections in each of the quadrants ofthe base plate 102 as well as removable sections in the middle and alongthe edges of the base plate 102. The removable portions or sections maybe attached to or removed from the base plate 102 based on size andshape of the RF antenna coupler 134 to ensure a snug fit, or may beattached utilizing the set screws 110 or other similar attachmentmechanisms, such as tabs, clips, adhesives, locks, velcro, biasedelements, and clamps. As a result, the RF antenna coupler 134 may bemounted in the middle of the base plate 102 and the guides moved tosecure the wireless device for testing without utilizing the horizontalguide 128 vertical guides 124, and back plate 132.

In one embodiment, the right guide 108 is fixably attached to the baseplate 102 as a permanently fixed guide. Alternatively, the right guide108 may be similarly moved or positioned on the base plate 102 to abutand secure the wireless device. The right guide 108 may also be narrowenough or configured to allow the vertical guides 124 to be slidablymoved up and down the length of the base plate 102 based on the wirelessdevice being tested. In one embodiment, the guides may beinterchangeable and of varying sizes to secure various types of wirelessdevices. For example, three of the guides may be longer with a fourthguide being shorter to accommodate almost any size wireless device. Alip of the guides may allow a portion of the guide to be positioned overor below an edge portion of the wireless device. The lip may be used forstability (when mounted from above) or to ensure the proper air gap(such as 5 mm) for testing when nesting the wireless device in theguides or a mold.

In one embodiment, the vertical support 120 may be attached to the rightguide 108 or the base plate 102. The vertical support 120 is a guideconfigured to secure or support a vertically extending portion of thewireless device that extends in the z-direction out of the horizontalplane (perpendicularly or at an angle). The vertical support 120 may besecured to the right guide 108 in order to accurately position a lid,screen, antenna, or other vertical, extending or hinged (fixed ormoveable) component of the wireless device. For example, in some cases,netbooks may include an antenna that is embedded within or about theperiphery of the LCD screen. As a result, LCD the screen may need to befixedly-positioned for testing the screen at an angle that may not be 90degrees to the base plate 102. For example, in some cases the optimal RFtesting position may be at an 80 degree angle, requiring that the screenbe tilted slightly. The vertical support 120 and corresponding stop 122provides a stop for positioning the lid, screen, antenna, or othervertically extending component of the wireless device. The verticalsupport 120 provides an additional reference point for accuratelypositioning the wireless device. For example, an LCD screen may need tobe positioned at an 80 degree angle to get the best RF testmeasurements. In some cases, wireless devices, such as a GPS unit, maybe stood on one end to optimize test results. The guides and verticalsupport may stabilize and secure the GPS unit in a naturally unstableposition during testing.

In one embodiment, the stop 122 is one of the set screws 110. In anotherembodiment, the stop 122 may be a padded dowel utilized to preventscratching of the screen or other damage. The stop 122 may alternativelybe a clip that passes through the vertical support 120 to secure the lidor screen of the wireless device. The vertical support 120 may be apermanent portion of the right guide 108 or may be similarly attached asneeded. In another embodiment, other vertical supports may be positionedon the left guide 104 or directly on the base plate 102 in order tosupport a vertically extending portion or other structure of thewireless device or to ensure the screen positioning of the wirelessdevice is consistent across multiple tests.

The vertical guides 124, horizontal guide 128 and back plate 132 providea way of positioning the RF antenna coupler 134. The vertical guides 124are extensions utilized for positioning the RF antenna coupler 134. Thevertical guides 124 represent a vertical plane perpendicular to thehorizontal plane of the base plate 102 or a z-direction of thehorizontal plane. The back plate 132 is a connector for connecting theRF antenna coupler 134 to the horizontal guide 128 or other component ofthe test fixture 100 for RF testing. The back plate 132 when attached tothe RF antenna coupler 134 may be moved in the x and y direction (aswell as z-direction in various embodiments) of the vertical plane forproperly positioning the RF antenna coupler 134 in an optimal positionnext to the antenna or communications component of the wireless devicefor testing the RF characteristics of the wireless device.

In one embodiment, the vertical guides 124 may be fixably mounted to thebase plate 102. In another embodiment, the vertical guides 124 may beslidably mounted along the y-direction of the horizontal plane forensuring that a proper air gap occurs between the transceiver of thewireless device and the RF antenna coupler 134. Even slight deviationsin the distance between the wireless device and the RF antenna coupler134 may affect measurements of the RF characteristics and performance.The test fixture 100 is particularly useful for ensuring the proper airgap between the wireless device and RF antenna coupler 134. The verticalguides 124, horizontal guide 128, back plate 132, and the RF antennacoupler 134 provide an effective way of bringing the RF antenna coupler134 near a test site for measuring RF characteristics of the wirelessdevice.

In one embodiment the grooves 126 allow the horizontal guide 128 to beraised and lowered in the y-direction of the vertical plane. As shown,the horizontal guide 128 may be a single element defining the slot 130that allows the RF antenna coupler 134 and interconnected back plate 132to be positioned along the length of the slot 130. As a result, thehorizontal guide 128 may be moved up and down in the y-direction of thevertical plane to vertically position the RF antenna coupler 134.Similarly, the back plate 132 and corresponding RF antenna coupler 134may be slidably or moveably-positioned or attached to the horizontalguide 128. For example the horizontal guide 128 may similarly includegrooves that allow the back plate 132 or RF antenna coupler 134 to beslidably-positioned along the length of the horizontal guide 128. Asshown, the horizontal guide 128 may include protruding edges configuredto slidably fit within the grooves 126 for positioning the horizontalguide 128. The back plate 132 or RF antenna coupler 134 may similarlyinclude protrusions or molded edges that may be utilized in the groovesof the slot 130. The horizontal guide 128 and the back plate 132 mayalso be set or positioned utilizing the set screws 110 or otherconnectors.

In one embodiment, the x-indicators 136 represent the Greek symbols forthe alphabet including Alpha, Beta, Gamma, etc. The x-indicators 136 maysimilarly include levels of granularity as previously discussed. They-indicators 138 may correspond to Roman numerals. The y-indicators 138may be written, inscribed, molded, etched, or otherwise displayed on thevertical guides 124 ensuring that the RF antenna coupler 134 iscompletely horizontal or positioned as desired. As previously described,the x-indicators 136 and y-indicators 138 may include an electronicdisplay, such as an LCD readout that indicates the exact position of thehorizontal guide 128, RF antenna coupler 134, or back plate 132. Theindicators or applicable markings may also be written down by a user orelectronically communicated to an interconnected device forreconfiguring the test fixture 100 for subsequent tests.

In one embodiment, the horizontal guide 128 may be attachable to thevertical guides 124 at one point on each end. A plastic rod maypivotally secure the horizontal guide 128 to the vertical guides 124. Asa result, the horizontal guide may be pivoted or rotationally mountedfor testing the wireless device. For example, during testing where theLCD screen is positioned at a 70 degree angle and is positioned againstthe stop 122 the vertical guides 124 may be slid slightly toward thefront guide 106 and the horizontal guide 128 may be rotated and fixablyattached to the vertical guides 124 to mimic the angle of the LCDscreen. In some instances, the antenna or transceiver of the wirelessdevice may be positioned at or along some portion of the LCD screen,such that the angle of the screen may impact RF testing. In some cases,it may be important to ensure that the RF antenna coupler 134 matchesthe angle of the LCD screen.

Alternatively, any number of angular positions may be utilized tomaximize testing effectiveness. As a result, the RF testing may ensurethat optimal transmission angles are utilized to best test the RFcharacterizes of the wireless device. In another embodiment, RF testingmay occur only within the vertical plane with fixedly attached verticalguides. As further described below, the RF antenna coupler 134, backplate 132, or a portion of the horizontal guide 128 may be rotationallyor pivotally mounted to the vertical guides 124. A single vertical guidemay also secure the horizontal guide 128 in a T or cross shape (or otherconfiguration) for positioning the back plate 132 and RF antenna coupler134.

FIG. 2 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture from behind inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 2 further illustratesthe test fixture 100 from behind the vertical guides 124. In particular,FIG. 2 illustrates mounting screws 135 that may be utilized to attachthe back plate 132 to the RF antenna coupler 134 and the verticalsupport 120 connected to the right guide 108 or alternatively to thebase plate 102. The mounting screws 135 may be a smaller implementationof the set screws 110 or other similar connectors.

FIG. 2 further illustrates how the set screws 110 may be utilized toconnect the back plate 132 to the horizontal guide 128. The horizontalguide 128 may include any number of through holes or ports separated byknown distances for attaching the back plate 132 to the horizontal guide128. As is shown, the size of the slot 130 may correspond to a width ofthe RF antenna coupler 134. The size of the slot 130 and configurationof the horizontal guide 128 may vary based on horizontal or verticalpositioning of the RF antenna coupler 134. For example, the arms thatmake up the horizontal guide 128 may be further separated forpositioning the RF antenna coupler 134 vertically rather thanhorizontally.

In other embodiments, the horizontal guide 128 may be a single component(without the slot 130) for fixably attaching the back plate 132 and RFantenna coupler 134. Alternatively, the arms of the horizontal guide 128may be separate elements that allow the slot 130 size to be increased ordecreased corresponding to the size of the RF antenna coupler 134 orpositioning. FIG. 2 further illustrates the stop 122 that may beutilized on one or more sides of the lid or screen to position thewireless device. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 the guides as well as theback plate 132 may include a slot or hole that the set screws 110 passthrough in order to secure the different elements to the test fixture100. The slots may provide additional leeway allowing the guides andback plate 132 to be positioned and secured. The slots may beparticularly useful for odd-shaped wireless devices that may not alignwell with the vertical gridlines 112 and horizontal gridlines 114providing the test fixture 100 added adaptability.

FIG. 3 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 3 illustrates an alternativeembodiment of a test fixture 300. The test fixture 300 may includevarious elements and components that may enable various configurationsof testing to be performed on distinct types of wireless devices. Thetest fixture 300 describes many of the components of the test fixture100 of FIG. 1. Those references are similarly utilized with regard tothe test fixture 300 of FIG. 3.

In addition, the test fixture 300 may include radial guides 136, radialstops 137, a mold 139, horizontal guides 140 and 142, and slots 144. Theradial guides 136 are a support member for rotationally or pivotallysupporting the horizontal guide 128. As shown, the radial guides 136 maybe slidably mounted to the vertical guides 124. The set screws 110 maysimilarly allow the radial guides 136 to be positioned in a y-directionof the vertical plane. The y-indicators 138 may indicate the exactpositioning of the radial guide 136 to ensure that the horizontal guide128 is level during testing. As previously described, the grooves 126may allow the radial guides 136 to be slidably positioned.

In other embodiments, the grooves 126 may be replaced by other securingor movement mechanisms, such as belts, bearings, ladders, pins, or soforth. The horizontal guide 128 may be secured to the radial guides 136utilizing extensions, dowels, rods or other elements that may beconnected to the horizontal guide 128 at either end or that may passthrough the horizontal guide 128. Any number of fasteners or securingmechanisms or features may be utilized to rotationally position thehorizontal guide 128 with reference to the radial guides 136. The radialstops 137 are stops or position elements that secure the horizontalguide 128 at a fixed location or angular displacement. For example, theradial stops 137 may represent biased pins that may allow the user toangularly position the horizontal guide 128 by pressing and releasingthe radial stops 137 to both move, and then subsequently fix, thehorizontal guide 128 in place. The radial stops 137 may alternatively beports or holes through which the set screws 110 or other connectors maybe positioned to fix the horizontal guide 128 in place.

As a result, the horizontal guide 128 and corresponding RF antennacoupler 134 and back plate 132 may be angularly positioned foroptimizing RF testing across wireless device types. The pivotallymounted horizontal guide 128 may be especially useful when testinglaptops, netbooks, or other elements that may include a lid, flip-upscreen, antenna or other vertically extending portion that incorporatesan antenna, RF transceiver, or other communications element. Adjustingthe angle of the horizontal guide 128 may reduce or increase therelative distance (i.e. air gap), angle, and orientation between the RFantenna coupler 134 associated with the test instrument and the wirelessdevice being tested. The horizontal guide 128 may be positioned tooptimize the RF characteristics measured or tested.

In one embodiment, the vertical guides 124 may be slidably mounted tothe outer edge of the base plate 102 (movement in the y-direction of thehorizontal plane). As a result, the vertical guides 124 andcorrespondingly the RF antenna coupler 134 may be positioned anywherealong the length of the base plate 102 in the x, y and z axis of thehorizontal plane. Additionally, such a configuration may allow thevertical guides 124 to be moved past the left guide 104 and right guide108 without repositioning the guides or disassembling the test fixture300. A combination of the described embodiments may be utilized tomeasure RF characteristics at multiple locations above, below, adjacent,or proximate the wireless device.

The horizontal guides 140 and 142 may be similar to the horizontal guide128. For example each may define a slot and include x and y indicatorsas well as through holes, ports, or slots through which the set screws110 may be placed or screwed in to secure the horizontal guides 140 and142. Any number of RF couplers, transceivers, antennas, orcommunications elements may be utilized in conjunction with thehorizontal guides 140 and 142 and back plates to test the wirelessdevice. The horizontal guides 140 and 142 may allow multiple RF antennacouplers to simultaneously test communications elements of the wirelessdevice, such as transmitters, receivers, or antennas that may bepositioned in different locations of the wireless device. For example, aGPS device may include a GPS transceiver as well as a Bluetooth,cellular, and AM/FM transceiver, each of which may be tested todetermine RF characteristics and wireless compliance.

In one embodiment, the horizontal guides 140 and 142 include narrowerarms that allow the horizontal guides 140 and 142 to be positioned moreclosely together. The slots defined by the horizontal guides 140, 142and 128 may correspond to the size of the RF antenna coupler 134utilized for testing and the positioning of the RF antenna coupler 134as required for testing or as determined by testing personnel ordevices.

In one embodiment, RF antenna couplers are mounted to the horizontalguides 140 and 142 utilizing one or more back plates, such as the backplate 132 of FIG. 1. The wires or cables interfacing with the RF antennacouplers may pass under the horizontal guides 140 and 142 and above thebase plate 102 to a location of the interconnected test instrument. Thehorizontal guides 140 and 142 may be moved or positioned along thelengths of the left guide 104 and the right guide 108 to correspond toan optimal position for testing the wireless device. The horizontalguides 140 and 142 may then be fixed utilizing the set screws 110 orutilizing the other methods, devices or elements herein described orknown in the art. The slots 144 may provide additional leeway forconnecting the guides, horizontal guides 140 and 142, and mold 139 tothe respective components.

The mold 139 is a support element configured to receive a particularmodel of wireless device. The mold 139 allows the wireless device to besecurely and stably nested during testing. For example, the mold 139 maybe sized to receive a specific model of BlackBerry for performing RFtesting. The mold 139 may support the entire wireless device. Forexample, a bottom lip on the mold may abut the bottom edge of thewireless device for testing if placed face up or may abut the top edgeof the wireless device if placed face down. The mold 139 may similarlybe composed of acetal. The shape of the mold 139 may be determined byouter dimensions of the wireless device. The orientation of the mold 139may be determined by the positioning of the internal or external andoptimal position of the wireless device. The mold 139 may be sized andconfigured to support any of the wireless devices herein described.

The horizontal guides 140 and 142 and their respective arms or supportsmay support the wireless device when placed in the mold 139. In oneembodiment, the horizontal guides 140 and 142 include detachable armsthat may be adjusted to the size of the required RF antenna coupler. Themold 139 and/or guides are preferably sized such that the wirelessdevice is held securely or snugly during testing. The mold 139 ensuresthat each wireless device is uniformly secured (position and location)during testing for repeatability and subsequent reproduction of RFtesting for confirmation or verification purposes. In one embodiment,the exact position and location of the mold 139 as secured to the testfixture 300 may be recorded and subsequently utilized by both an OEM andservice provider to confirm RF test results. For example, a failuredetermined by the service provider during RF testing may be repeated bythe OEM utilizing the mold 139 and indications of the exact position ofthe mold 139 on the test fixture. As a result, each party may exactlyduplicate testing positions and results to foster collaboration, andprovide venues for determining errors when problems arise. As a resulttime and effort are saved by multiple parties and a single test fixturemay be utilized to test multiple devices.

An edge of the mold 139 may include a cut-out allowing a user to easilyremove the wireless device after performing testing. Additionally, otherpop-out mechanisms, such as a lever under the wireless device, may beincorporated with the mold 139 for removing the wireless device aftertesting.

The test fixture 300 may be compatible with any number of molds. Forexample, molds for GPS devices may be wider and more rectangular whilemolds for cell phones, such as the iPhone, will be long and narrow. Aspreviously described, the guides and particularly the left guide 104 andthe right guide 108 may be long enough to accommodate the separation ofthe horizontal guides 140 and 142 that may be required to performtesting of the wireless device. Alternatively, multiple guides may beplaced next to each other to adapt to the current testing needs of theuser. The horizontal guides 140 and 142 and the mold 139 provide aneffective way of performing testing for wireless devices that previouslyrequired multiple test fixtures. As a result, one day the test fixture300 may be utilized to test a model of netbooks, and then hours laterwhen the tests for the netbook are done, the test fixture 300 may beconfigured to test a specific model of cell phones.

The molds, as well as the guides including the horizontal guides 140,142 and 128, may be sold independently or distributed in order to mixand match parts. For example, horizontal guides that accommodate aspecific size of RF antenna coupler 134 may be easily integrated andutilized with the test fixture 300, as needed. Additionally, the mold139 may be generated for newly released wireless devices allowingfull-scale RF testing to occur in a matter of days rather than weeks ormonths. The mold 139 and the horizontal guides 140 and 142 ensure thatthe proper air gap occurs between the one or more RF antenna couplersand the wireless device and corresponding antenna or communicationselements. The length, width, height, shape, and size of the guides aswell as the mold 139 may vary based on the wireless device being tested.For example, a wireless GPS device may be thicker and require tallerguides to best secure the GPS during RF testing.

As a result, the compliance testing may be easily performed for anynumber of wireless devices very simply and with lower costs. The testfixture 300 may be utilized for multiple wireless devices and the timerequired for a user to understand the test fixture 300 and reconfigureit for wireless devices is minimal. The x-indicators 118 andy-indicators 116 on the base plate 102 as well as the horizontal guides140, 142 and 128 may allow a user to determine the exact location orposition of each element for subsequent tests. For example, a user maywrite down the positioning of each guide, the mold 139, multiple RFantenna couplers and other components of the test fixture 300 to easilyrecreate the testing configuration and positioning for consistency andrepeatability.

In one embodiment, the vertical guides 124 may be slid forward so thatthe RF antenna coupler 134 may measure and test RF characteristics ofthe wireless device at the same time RF antenna couplers mounted in thehorizontal guides 140 and 142 or base plate 102 perform similarmeasurements and tests. As previously described, any of the componentsof the test fixture 300 may be connected to electrical or mechanicalelements for positioning and moving each element to a position orlocation. For example, worm gears, belts, motors, plastic chains, drivesor other elements may remotely move each element to an optimal positionfor performing testing of the wireless device. For example, a modulardrive and position mechanism may be temporarily connected to the testfixture and then subsequently removed during the full-scale RF testingto prevent unwanted interference. In another embodiment, drive elementsmay be shielded or encapsulated in materials preventing RF interference.

As previously described, in a self-configuration mode, the test fixture300, wireless device, and test instrument may be configured to determinethe optimal position for transmitting and receiving information to andfrom the wireless device and to and from the RF antenna coupler 134. Insome cases, different positions may be utilized for different elementsof a test, such as a transmit and a receive. For example, the wirelessdevice may include antennas one of which is used for transmittingwireless communications and another which is utilized for receivingwireless communications. Alternatively, a single location may be usedfor performing all of the tests.

The test fixture 300 may be sized and configured to accommodate bothfull size laptops and the smallest cell phones minimizing the testfixtures and test instruments required to test across product lines,test batches, device models, or communications standards.

FIG. 4 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture from behind inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 4 provides another viewof the test fixture 300 and is shown for purposes of understanding theflexibility and utility of the test fixture 300.

FIG. 5 is a pictorial representation of a radial guide 145 in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 5 illustrates a particularimplementation of the radial guides 136 shown in FIG. 4. The radialguide 145 may include the radial stops 137 as well as an extension 146and a port 148. The radial stops 137 are extensions utilized to positionand secure the horizontal guide. The radial stops 137 may includelocking or biased pins that may be pushed in order to slide or rotatethe horizontal guide into a desired position. The port 148 is a pivotpoint about which the horizontal guide rotates.

In one embodiment, extensions, pins, pivots or other elements of thehorizontal guides may be positioned within the port 148 in order torotate to the desired position. The extension 146 is an extending memberthat allows the radial guide 145 to slide up and down along the verticalguides.

In one embodiment, the extension 146 may be shaped so that the radialguide 145 may only be inserted or removed from an uppermost portion ofthe groove of the vertical guide or from a bottommost portion of thevertical guide when the vertical guide is not connected to the baseplate. Other grooves and extension shapes may be similarly utilized toslidably connect the components of the test fixture as previouslydescribed.

FIG. 6 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 6 illustrates another embodimentof a test fixture 600. The test fixture 600 may be utilized to performRF testing. In addition to the elements previously described, the testfixture 600 of FIGS. 6 and 7 may further include a cut-out 150, throughholes 152, mounting through holes 154, slits 156, and cable cut-outs158. The test fixture 600 provides a test stand for quickly andrepeatably performing RF testing. The test fixture 600 may alternativelybe utilized to secure the wireless device during painting,customization, assembly, repair, or other activities. The test fixture600 is particularly useful for wireless devices that do not include asubstantially vertically extending portion, but rather may be tested inthe horizontal plane.

The through holes 152 are holes or ports for attaching guides, molds, orother elements to the base plate 102 utilizing any number and type ofconnectors. The through holes 152 are an alternative or supplement tothe gridlines or grooves previously described. For example, the setscrews 110 may be attached to the base plate 102 through the throughholes 152. The mounting through holes 154 are through holes that allowthe test fixture 100 to be mounted to a test platform, RF chamber, orother element. The mounting through holes 154 may be used with the setscrews 110 or other attachment elements or connectors. The mountingthrough holes 154 may also be utilized to attach guides, such as thevertical guides 124 of FIG. 1, to the base plate 102.

As previously described, molds, such as mold 139, may be utilized tosecure any number of device types. The mold 139 may secure the wirelessdevice in any number of configurations, such as open, closed, positionedon a side or end, and so forth. For example, the mold 139 may secure aSamsung model flip phone that is placed in the mold 139 in an openposition for testing.

The mold 139 may be moved to position the wireless device directly abovethe RF antenna coupler 134 positioned within the base plate 102. Themold 139 may be positioned in the optimal position for maximizing themeasurements and RF characteristics measured by the RF antenna coupler134. The slits 156 are defined within the mold 139 for positioning thewireless device in the optimal position. The mold 139 may include slits156 in various locations of the mold and in various shapes. For example,the mold 139 may include slits that are semi circular in each quadrantof the mold 139 for securing the mold 139 to the base plate utilizingset screws 110. Multiple slits 156 provide additional leeway and mayensure that the mold 139 is securable to the base plate regardless ofthe position on the mold 139.

As shown in FIG. 6, the back plate 132 may be sized to secure the RFantenna coupler 134 in a desired position within the cut-out 150. Thecut-out 150 is a space defined within the base plate 102. The cut-out150 may utilize any number of shapes. For example, the cut-out 150 maybe sized and shaped as further shown in FIG. 7 to accommodate the RFantenna coupler 134 in any number of positions or alignments. Thecut-out may accommodate various size of RF antenna couplers that may bepositioned along the x axis or y axis of the base plate 102. The cut-out150 and back plate 132 may additionally accommodate odd or distinctlyshaped RF antenna couplers. The back plate 132 may be secured to thebase plate 102 utilizing the set screws or other connectors.

FIG. 7 is a pictorial representation of a test fixture as viewed frombelow in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As shown, the backplate 132 is attached to the bottom of the base plate 102. In oneembodiment, the base plate 102 is recessed in an area surrounding thecut-out 150 so that the base plate 102 may sit flush on a surface duringtesting. For example, the back plate 132 attached to the RF antennacoupler by the mounting screws 135 may be attached to the base plate 102through the through holes 152 utilizing the set screws 110 withoutunbalancing the test fixture 600. The size and shape of the recessedarea of the base plate 102 may correspond to the back plate 132 and/orRF antenna coupler. In another embodiment, the RF antenna coupler may beinserted or connected directly to the base plate 102 in the cut-out 150.

The cable cut-outs 158 are a recessed portion of the base plate 102 thatcover, house, or encompass the wire or cables connected to the RFantenna coupler when the test fixture 600 is in use. The cut-out 150 andthe cable cut-outs 158 may be a permanent part of the base plate 102 ormay include portions of the base plate 102 that are removable, as neededfor specific forms of RF testing.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a process for performing RF testing utilizingthe test fixture in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In oneembodiment, the process of FIG. 8 may be implemented by a user, such asan engineer, lab technician, or other user utilizing an RF test fixture.The process of FIG. 8 may begin by positioning a wireless device on abase plate of a test fixture (step 802). In one embodiment, the wirelessdevice may be placed flush against one or more guides, such as a rightguide. The wireless device may be a single flat component or a hingeddevice, such as a netbook. The wireless device may alternatively haveany number of physical configurations or may be positioned face down onan edge or in any position useful for performing the RF testing.

Next, the user positions a number of guides to support edges of thewireless device (step 804). In one embodiment, the guides may beslidably moved along gridlines to a position supporting the wirelessdevice and then further secured in the specific location. In anotherembodiment, the guides may be added or removed from the base plate, asneeded. In yet another embodiment, a mold may be attached directly tothe base plate or to one or more guides for performing the RF testing(step 802 and 804 may alternatively be integrated when the wirelessdevice is nested in the positioned mold). The test fixture may includeas many guides as are necessary to perform testing. The guides may besecured to the base plate utilizing set screws, pegs, clamps,elastomeric fixtures that attach the guides when released, or utilizingany number of other elements.

Next, the user positions an RF antenna coupler to correspond to anoptimal position for testing the wireless device (step 806). The antennacoupler may be mounted or attached to on a back plate or connector. Theback plate may be slidably connected to a horizontal guide, which isslidably connected to one or more vertical guides or to guides on thebase plate. As a result, the RF antenna coupler or RF antenna couplersmay be positioned horizontally, vertically, and rotationally in the x,y, and z-direction of the horizontal and vertical plane to performtesting. The optimal position for the RF antenna coupler may bedetermined utilizing trial and error, design or manufacturinginformation, focused implementation, or logic determinations based on RFmeasurements.

In another embodiment, the movement of the guides and RF antenna couplermay be controlled by one or more electronic, hydraulic, or mechanicalelements. For example, worm gears, belts, knobs, hydraulics, pneumatics,motors, or other suitable components may position the guides and/or theRF antenna coupler. In one embodiment, all electrical components areshielded or positioned outside the hood to reduce RF and mechanicalinterference. For example, plastic drive ports may allow a motor withinterconnected logic to determine the positions of components of thetest fixture for subsequent tests of similar devices. Similarly, thedrive ports may be moved by motors connected to a computer or logicaldevice configured to move the guides or mold to optimal positions orlocations for performing the RF testing. The guides may be movedmanually or based on an automatic configuration or securing modeselectable for the test fixture. For example, exact coordinates for eachcomponent may be saved for automatically reconfiguring the test fixtureto test a specified wireless device or model.

The logic and other components for controlling the test fixture may beintegrated with the test fixture or externally connected to the testfixture so that the configuration of the test fixture may occur withoutthe influence of metallic or electronic components that may effect RFtesting. In one embodiment, the RF antenna coupler may be automaticallypositioned utilizing computerized motors that execute software orhardware optimization logic for testing the wireless device under idealor acceptable circumstances or characteristics. For example, externallogic may determine the optimal position that utilizes the ideal airgap, optimal angle for the RF antenna coupler to measure transmissions,and the optimal RF antenna coupler location for sending packets, data,information, or communications to and from the wireless device, asfurther described below.

Next, the user identifies a location of the guides, wireless device,and/or RF antenna coupler(s) (step 808). The position or location of thedifferent elements may be performed by reading, analyzing, or evaluatingmarkings on the base plate, vertical guides, horizontal guide, and othercomponents. For example, the user may write down the coordinates of eachelement of the test fixture. The user may also mark locations orpositions of individual set screws. In another embodiment, the locationof the different components may be electronically determined andindicated by a display or by communication to a separate communicationsor computing device.

Next, the user performs testing of the wireless device utilizing testinstruments connected to the RF antenna coupler (step 810). Any numberof tests may be performed for the wireless device. Subsequently, thewireless device may be removed from the test fixture and another similardevice (i.e. device of the same model) may be tested to determine anaverage performance for a number of wireless devices. Alternatively, thetest fixture may be reconfigured for testing other wireless devices, asneeded.

In another embodiment, the RF antenna coupler 134 may be embedded withinthe base plate of the test fixture. A configuration with the RF antennacoupler embedded or temporarily positioned within the base plate mayallow devices, such as some models of cell phones, personal digitalassistants, tablets, electronic readers, or other devices to be testedwithout using the RF antenna coupler supported by the vertical guides.The RF antenna coupler may be fixably attached to the base plate or maybe positioned within a number of pre-configured locations of the baseplate to optimize testing and to accommodate the size, shape, RFcharacteristics, and antenna configuration of the wireless device. Aspreviously described, the RF antenna coupler may be utilized with otherguides in a stacked configuration

Transmitter Tests

During a transmitter test, a RF cable may be connected between the RFIN/OUT port of the test instrument to the RF port on the wireless devicebeing tested. The insertion loss values for the RF cable may be set forthe uplink channels (i.e. low, mid and high channels) on the testinstrument. Next, the test instrument may be configured to allow thedevice to register, including, for example, configuring the uplink anddownlink channels, and the channel configurations.

The RF power level of the test instrument may be set based on theappropriate wireless standard for maximum transmit output powermeasurements. Next, a call or communication may be initiated from thewireless device. The test instrument measures and records the maximumtransmit output power for the specified level and configuration. Themaximum transmit output power may be used as a baseline transmissionmeasurement. Portions of the transmitter test may then be repeated asnecessary for mid channel, high channels, and other bands.

Optimal Position

In addition to the process described above, the following steps may alsobe performed. The x, y, and angular positions of the RF antenna coupler,back plate, guides, and set screws or connectors, may be noted orrecorded for each of the following steps for iteratively determining anoptimal or acceptable position or “sweet spot” for performing a numberof RF tests. The back plate and connected RF antenna coupler may bepositioned near the upper left hand portion of the wireless device,including the device lid, keyboard, or other portion of the wirelessdevice. A maximum transmission output power reading may be taken andrecorded.

Next, the back plate and RF antenna coupler may be moved one or moremeasurements to the right, such as one centimeter or millimeter to theright. Measurements are performed each time the back plate and RFantenna coupler are moved until the back plate and RF antenna couplerare at the right hand corner of a portion of the wireless device. Next,the back plate and RF antenna coupler are moved back to the left mostportion of the wireless device and lowered one measurement unit beforereturning to taking measurements and moving the back plate and RFantenna coupler. This process may be performed until the maximumtransmit output power reading has degraded 10 dB from a maximum reading.The position that corresponds to the highest maximum transmit outputpower reading is marked as the initial optimal position. The testfixture as described may allow the position optimization to be performedonce and then repeated for multiple devices utilizing the indicators,molds, guides, stops, set screws, and other elements of the testfixture.

In another embodiment, measurements may taken at spaced (one on eachside before moving down) or random locations to determine the optimallocation or position. For example, a similar process of moving andtaking measurements may be utilized including triangulation,interpolation, estimation, inference, design and historical information,random sampling or other automated techniques. The determination of theoptimal location may be implemented by logic or an algorithm configuredto optimize the RF characteristics of the wireless device measuredduring RF testing. As a result, the ideal position of the wirelessdevice relative to the RF antenna coupler(s) is performed and may besubsequently reused for testing similar wireless devices.

In one embodiment, the process may be performed electronically utilizinga test instrument, digital logic, a database storing RF measurements inmatrix form, step motors, or other elements that may be externally orinternally connected to gears, drive ports, or belts of the testfixture. As a result, the optimal position of the RF antenna coupler maybe more accurately determined without utilizing a manual process. The RFchamber may be closed and the movement elements may be turned offbetween performing tests and measurements at each position or locationto prevent RF interference.

The process for determining the optimal position may similarly beperformed for horizontal guides, connectors, a mold (or other customfixture) and RF antenna couplers that are connected to the base plate.In addition, the locations of the mold, wireless device, and set screwsmay be noted or recorded. Linking or associating the optimalmeasurements with the position of the components may be performedelectronically or manually.

In one alternative embodiment, the RF antenna coupler is embedded withinthe base plate. As a result the entire mold may be moved betweenpositions to determine the optimal positioning and air gap of thewireless device relevant to the fixed RF antenna coupler for performingtesting.

The optimal position as determined may also be utilized for the receivertest described below. In some cases, transmitting and receivingcomponents of the wireless device may be positioned separately requiringmultiple determinations of the optimal location for the correspondingtype of RF communication.

Receiver Test

In one embodiment, receiver tests may be performed after the transmittertests once the RF cable has already been connected. The insertion lossvalues for the RF cable may be set for the downlink channels (i.e. low,mid and high channels) on the test instrument. The test may beconfigured to measure BER. Next, the BER is measured. In some cases,during BER/FER measurements for the appropriate wireless standard, theRF power level for the test instrument is decreased until the BER/FERlimits are reached. As an example, the WCDMA BER limit is 0.1% with anRF power level set to −104 dBm. The RF power level may be decreased froma starting RF power level of −104 dBm decrement in 1 dB intervals untila BER reading of 0.1% is achieved. The RF power level is recorded andmay be associated with the BER and FER measurements for the wirelessdevice. Next, steps of the receiving measurements may be performed formid-channel and high channels and other bands as necessary.

The illustrative embodiments may allow the test fixture to be utilizedto test a number of wireless devices. In particular, the RF antennacoupler may be ideally-positioned in the optimal x, y, and z-directionand location. As a result, a new test fixture does not need to bepurchased or custom made for each new wireless device. In particular,the guides, mold and/or the RF antenna coupler may be positioned and anew device may be tested. Additionally, the test fixture may bereconfigured according to indicators or other information for retestinga wireless device or a similar make or model. Any of the embodiments,features, methods, and components herein described may be combined orotherwise utilized to perform RF testing or to secure a wireless devicefor any reasons.

The previous detailed description is of a small number of embodimentsfor implementing the invention and is not intended to be limiting inscope. The following claims set forth a number of the embodiments of theinvention disclosed with greater particularity.

What is claimed:
 1. A method for testing radio frequency (RF)characteristics of a wireless device, the method comprising: receivingthe wireless device on a base plate of a test fixture, the wirelessdevice comprising at least one of a computing device ortelecommunications device; receiving an RF antenna in a back plate ofthe test fixture; positioning the back plate in relation to acommunications component of the wireless device in a positioncorresponding to acceptable RF characteristics of the wireless device;and performing RF testing on the wireless device.
 2. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein positioning the back plate furthercomprises: positioning the back plate within a horizontal guide of thetest fixture; and positioning the horizontal guide within at least onevertical guide of the test fixture.
 3. The method according to claim 2,wherein the back plate is slidably connected to the horizontal guide,the back plate being operably positioned in an x-direction of a verticalplane, the horizontal guide being slidably and pivotally connected tothe at least one vertical guide, and the horizontal guide being operablypositioned in a y-direction of the vertical plane.
 4. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the wireless device is received on thebase plate using one or more base plate guides.
 5. The method accordingto claim 4, further comprising: securing at least one of the one or morebase plate guides fixedly to the base plate.
 6. The method according toclaim 1, wherein positioning the back plate in the positioncorresponding to the acceptable RF characteristics of the wirelessdevice comprises: creating a proper air gap between the RF antenna andthe communications component of the wireless device.
 7. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein positioning the back plate furthercomprises: positioning the RF antenna above the wireless device.
 8. Themethod according to claim 1, further comprising: securing the wirelessdevice to the base plate using one or more base plate guides; andsecuring the back plate in the position using a horizontal guide and atleast one vertical guide.
 9. The method according to claim 8, whereinthe base plate includes a plurality of markings indicating positioningof the wireless device, and the horizontal guide and the at least onevertical guide include a plurality of markings indicating positioning ofthe RF antenna.
 10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising:indicating a position of the wireless device and a position of the RFantenna for use in subsequent tests of similar wireless devices.
 11. Themethod according to claim 1, further comprising: positioning a second RFantenna in the base plate for simultaneous testing of the wirelessdevice.
 12. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:automatically determining the position of the back plate for testing thewireless device; and automatically repositioning the test fixture to theposition in response to a user selection to perform testing for asimilar wireless device.
 13. A radio frequency (RF) testing system,comprising: a test fixture comprising: a base plate configured toreceive a wireless device; and a back plate configured to receive an RFantenna and to position the RF antenna relative to the wireless device;and test equipment configured to perform RF testing on the wirelessdevice using the RF antenna to determine RF characteristics of thewireless device.
 14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the baseplate is configured to receive a second RF antenna for further RFtesting of the wireless device.
 15. The system according to claim 13,wherein the test fixture further comprises: a horizontal guide, whereinthe back plate is slidably coupled to the horizontal guide; and at leastone vertical guide configured to couple to the horizontal guide.
 16. Thesystem according to claim 13, wherein the RF characteristics aredetermined utilizing transmitter measurements, modulation measurements,spectrum measurements, and receiver measurements.
 17. The systemaccording to claim 13, wherein the RF characteristics are tested by oneor more testing instruments in communication with the RF antennacoupler.
 18. A method for testing wireless characteristics of a wirelessdevice comprising: receiving the wireless device on a base plate of atest fixture; positioning a radio frequency (RF) antenna above thewireless device and in relation to a communications component of thewireless device in a position corresponding to acceptable RFcharacteristics of the wireless device; and indicating positions of thewireless device and the RF antenna, wherein the indicated positions areutilized to perform subsequent testing of similar wireless devices. 19.The method according to claim 18, further comprising: automaticallydetermining the positions of the wireless device and the RF antennacoupler for the testing; and automatically repositioning the testfixture to the positions in response to a user selection to performtesting for the similar wireless devices.
 20. The method according toclaim 18, wherein the wireless device is secured by one or more guides.21. The method according to claim 18, wherein the wirelesscharacteristics are determined utilizing transmitter measurements,modulation measurements, spectrum measurements, and receivermeasurements.
 22. The method according to claim 18, wherein the wirelesscharacteristics are tested by one or more testing instruments incommunication with the RF antenna.